Prime Minister Narendra Modi on Sunday wished India’s contingent success at the Asian Para Games 2026, which officially opened in Aichi-Nagoya, Japan, with a ceremony at Paloma Mizuho Stadium.
In a post on X, PM Modi wrote, “As the Asian Para Games 2026 begin in Aichi-Nagoya, conveying my best wishes to the Indian contingent.”
He added, “India is immensely proud of our phenomenal para-athletes. Their grit, dedication and indomitable spirit inspire 140 crore Indians. May they compete with confidence and give their very best.”
As the Asian Para Games 2026 begin in Aichi-Nagoya, conveying my best wishes to the Indian contingent.
India is immensely proud of our phenomenal para-athletes. Their grit, dedication and indomitable spirit inspire 140 crore Indians.
May they compete with confidence and give their very best.
— Narendra Modi (@narendramodi) October 18, 2026
Para-badminton star Pramod Bhagat and para-athlete Simran Sharma carried the Indian flag during the opening ceremony.
The contingent wore deep blue blazers decorated with golden motifs inspired by the Indus Valley Civilisation. The designs featured the Priest-King sculpture, the Dancing Girl figurine and ancient seals.
India Targets Strong Medal Haul
India has sent 281 members, including 168 athletes — 112 men and 56 women — to compete across 11 disciplines. The team aims to build on its performances in previous editions.
Ahead of the ceremony, Para Athletics Head Coach Satyanarayana said the athletes were confident and eager to turn their preparations into results.
“We are targeting around 100 medals for India, and we believe our athletes have the ability and determination to achieve this,” he said.
He identified para athletics as a key part of the campaign and expected six medals on the following day, including two to three golds.
He also expressed confidence in Nishad Kumar’s form, hoping the athlete would deliver a personal best and potentially break the Games record.
Satyanarayana acknowledged the challenge posed by leading athletes from across Asia but said India’s competitors were prepared to perform at their potential.
The Games will continue until October 24, with Indian athletes seeking medals across the 11 sporting disciplines.
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